Murphy Bed with Trundle: Options and Space Needs

What a trundle adds to a Murphy bed

A trundle is a low platform on wheels that stores under the main bed and pulls out when you need a second sleeping surface. On a Murphy bed, the trundle sits beneath the folded cabinet or under the bed when it is open. The main bed folds up against the wall, and the trundle stays on the floor, so the room can serve as a guest room with two beds or as a single-bed room when the trundle is tucked away. If you are new to Murphy beds, the best Murphy bed guide explains the basic types and sizes.

The trundle changes how you plan the room. When the trundle is open, it extends into the floor space in front of the bed, so you need enough clearance for it to roll out fully. When it is closed, it adds height and depth to the cabinet, which affects how the piece fits against the wall and how much floor space it claims.

• A trundle provides a second bed without a second full-size frame.
• The trundle mattress is usually thinner than the main mattress, so check the listing for its size.
• The trundle may be on casters or a simple pull-out frame; the listing will state the mechanism.
• The closed cabinet with a trundle is deeper and taller than a standard Murphy bed, so measure the space.

How a trundle affects dimensions and space needs

A trundle adds to the closed dimensions of a Murphy bed. The cabinet depth grows because the trundle platform needs room to slide out, and the height may increase if the trundle sits above the floor on casters. For example, Wilding Wallbeds lists cabinet bed depths of 23.7 to 26.4 inches for models without a trundle, but a trundle model will have different measurements. Always read the listing's own dimensions for the closed cabinet and the open footprint. For guidance on measuring your room, see measuring a room for a Murphy bed.

The open footprint also changes. When the main bed is down, the trundle pulls out from underneath, so you need floor space in front of the bed equal to the trundle's length. In a guest room, that means the area in front of the bed must stay clear, which can limit furniture placement. Measure the room before buying, and check the listing for the trundle's dimensions.

The trundle mattress is typically thinner than the main mattress, often a 6-inch or 8-inch foam model. The listing will state the trundle mattress size, which may be twin or full. A thinner mattress keeps the trundle low enough to slide under the main bed, but it also means the trundle sleeper is closer to the floor.

How the trundle interacts with the bed mechanism

The trundle is separate from the bed's lift mechanism. The main bed folds up and down using springs, pistons, or a counterbalance system, while the trundle simply rolls out on casters or slides on a track. The two systems do not share parts, but the trundle must be designed so it does not interfere with the bed's legs or the folding action. For a deeper look at how these mechanisms work, visit the spring vs piston comparison.

When the main bed is down, the trundle sits underneath it. When the bed folds up, the trundle stays on the floor, so the cabinet must be tall enough to clear the trundle when the bed is stored. Check the listing for the cabinet height and the trundle's clearance. If the trundle is too tall, it may prevent the bed from folding completely.

The mechanism type affects how you use the trundle. A gas piston or spring mechanism lifts the main bed, but the trundle is always manual. You pull it out and push it back in. The listing will describe the trundle's operation, so read that section carefully.

Is a Murphy bed with trundle right for a guest room?

A Murphy bed with a trundle is a strong choice for a guest room that hosts children, siblings, or occasional extra guests. The main bed gives a full sleeping surface, and the trundle provides a second bed without taking up permanent floor space. When the trundle is closed, the room looks like a single-bed space, which is ideal for a home office or a small spare room. If you are comparing cabinet beds, the cabinet beds guide covers freestanding options that may include trundles.

Consider who will use the trundle. A twin trundle suits a child or a single adult, while a full trundle can accommodate two people but takes up more floor space when open. The trundle mattress is thinner, so it may not be as comfortable for adults as the main bed. For nightly use, a trundle may not be the best choice; it is better for occasional guests.

If the room is also an office or a studio, the trundle adds flexibility. You can keep the trundle closed during the day and pull it out only when guests arrive. The closed cabinet with a trundle is deeper, so plan the layout to keep the area in front of the bed clear. Pairing a desk with a Murphy bed can make the room even more versatile; see the Murphy beds with desk guide for ideas.

• Guest rooms with occasional children's sleepovers benefit from a twin trundle.
• A full trundle suits two adults but needs more open floor space.
• For nightly use, a trundle may be less comfortable; consider a sofa bed or a second wall bed instead.
• The trundle adds storage flexibility, but it also adds to the closed footprint.

What to check before buying a Murphy bed with trundle

Before you choose a Murphy bed with a trundle, read the listing for the trundle's mattress size, the closed cabinet dimensions, and the trundle mechanism. The listing may state the trundle mattress thickness, which affects comfort. Also check whether the trundle is included or sold separately, and whether the main bed requires a special mattress. For more on mattress requirements, see the mattress compatibility guide.

Measure the room, including the wall space for the closed cabinet and the floor space for the open trundle. The trundle extends in front of the bed, so the room needs enough clearance. If the room is narrow, a trundle may not fit comfortably.

Ask the seller about the trundle's weight capacity and whether it can be used with the main bed down. The maker's instructions will explain how to operate the trundle and the main bed. Follow those instructions for safe use. If you are considering a full-size trundle, the full-size Murphy bed guide compares models across sizes.

What to pick for your situation

Questions

Does a trundle add much to the closed size of a Murphy bed?

Yes, a trundle adds depth and height to the closed cabinet. The exact increase depends on the model, so check the listing's dimensions for the closed cabinet.

Can I use a regular mattress on a trundle?

Trundles typically use a thinner mattress, often 6 to 8 inches, so it fits under the main bed. A regular mattress may be too thick. Check the listing for the trundle mattress size.

Is a Murphy bed with trundle good for nightly use?

The main bed is suitable for nightly use, but the trundle mattress is thinner and may be less comfortable for adults. It is better for occasional guests.

Does the trundle affect the bed's folding mechanism?

No, the trundle is separate from the lift mechanism. It rolls out manually, while the main bed uses springs or pistons. The trundle must clear the cabinet when the bed is stored.